El Kaabi's Spectacular Strike Caps The Atlas Lions' Victory Over Comoros in Africa Cup of Nations Opening Match.
Host nation Morocco shook off a nervy beginning to defeat their island opponents in the competition's opening game on the weekend, thanks to Brahim Díaz and substitute El Kaabi in the second half.
It was a far from convincing showing, though, from the heavily tipped hosts, who are ranked 97 places higher than the tiny island nation in the FIFA rankings and had to work tirelessly for the points in wet conditions at the Prince Moulay Abdellah stadium.
Nervy Beginning and Missed Opportunities
Morocco missed an early penalty and were goalless at the interval even with dominating the ball, finally breaking the deadlock in the 55th minute.
The goal came when Noussair Mazraoui did well to keep the ball in play before laying it square for Díaz to sidefoot home.
“The opening game is never easy but we came good in the second period,” commented manager Regragui.
The Substitute's Moment of Brilliance
The tension was subsequently eased by a piece of sheer individual brilliance from substitute El Kaabi. Only 10 minutes following coming on, the striker connected with a ball into the box with a spectacular overhead kick in the 74th minute, making it two and sealing the result.
Earlier in the match, the Moroccan team could have been the lead in the 11th minute after a penalty was awarded for a foul on Díaz. However, Rahimi's penalty was saved by Comoros goalkeeper Pandor.
The Visitors' Resistance and Second-Half Opportunity
Comoros stoutly defended against their more illustrious opponents at bay before the hosts' greater quality eventually told.
Shot-stopper Yannick Pandor made a number of other good stops to limit the score as the match wore on, although Comoros did have a chance for an equalizer shortly after Díaz's goal, with Saïd firing straight at Morocco goalkeeper Bounou.
Fitness Concern for Hosts
The victory was partially overshadowed by an injury to Morocco's captain, Saïss, who was forced off after the first half in some distress.
This centre-back had only made his comeback to the international setup recently following a year’s absence caused by ankle surgery.
This result extends Morocco's record-breaking run of consecutive victories to 19, beating the old best of 15 set by the Spanish national team from 2008 and 2009.
